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UA-PTC 3D alumnus raises money for 3D program

Tara Ricardo, a 2020 alumnus of UA-PTC's 3D program through the Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute was hired by the Chicken Salad Chick immediately after graduation. This opportunity allowed Tara to apply the skills she learned as a student in the 3D Program.

"I fell in love with her right away," said Emily Gray, supervisor of Chicken Salad Chick.

Tara never forgot the education she received from the 3D program and wanted to give back to the 3D program that helped her get where she is today. In 2021, Tara started an annual fundraiser hosted by her employer, Chicken Salad Chick to bring awareness to Williams Syndrome, a condition she has had since birth. This year, Tara decided to donate those dollars to UA-PTC’s 3D program. Tara raised $1,000 and a check was presented to the UA-PTC 3D program on Thursday, September 1.

"Tara was an absolute pleasure to be around on campus and was an amazing student. We are all so proud of Tara and for the big heart she has for the 3D program," said Shanda Daniel, 3D Program Lead Instructor.

The mission of the 3D program is to provide access to high-quality education that promotes student learning and enables individuals with developmental disabilities to develop to their fullest potential through unique, targeted programs for business and industry.

For more information about the 3D program, visit uaptc.edu/3d

Pictured left to right: Johna French, Catherine McCormack, Tara Ricardo, Shanda Daniel, and Steve Varady.